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Orla Unisex

Popularity: #879 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationOR-lah / /ˈɔːr.lə/

Irish; Gaelic

Meaning

Irish: golden princess; Gaelic: noble

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Orla has its roots in the Irish language, derived from the Gaelic "Orlaith," which translates to "golden princess" or "golden lady." The etymology can be broken down into two components: "or," meaning "gold," and "laith," meaning "princess" or "noble." This name reflects the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, where names often carry significant meanings tied to nature, nobility, and beauty. The transition of Orla into English-speaking contexts likely occurred during the 19th century, as Irish names began to gain recognition outside of Ireland, particularly through the influence of Irish emigration and the diaspora.

Historically, the name Orla has been associated with various figures in Irish folklore and mythology, although specific historical milestones are less documented compared to more prominent names. The use of the name can be traced back to the early medieval period in Ireland, where names often signified lineage and status. The name's enduring presence in Irish culture is further supported by its inclusion in various literary works and its representation in Irish art and storytelling. While not as widely recognized as some other Irish names, Orla has maintained a consistent presence in Irish tradition.

Culturally, the name Orla resonates with themes of nobility and beauty, often evoking imagery of golden landscapes and the natural beauty of Ireland. It embodies a sense of pride in heritage and identity, which is significant in Irish culture. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as Orly, which reflect the affectionate and familial ties often associated with names in Irish society. Overall, Orla stands as a testament to the rich linguistic and cultural tapestry of Ireland, symbolizing both heritage and grace.

Trend Summary

Orla has seen a steady rise in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Orlagh

International Variants

  • Orla (Irish)
  • Orlaith (Irish)
  • Orlaya (Spanish)

Famous people named Orla

Orla Brady is an actress best known for The O.C., Penny Dreadful, and Star Trek: Picard.

Orla Guerin is a journalist best known for her work with BBC News and reporting from conflict zones.

Fictional characters named Orla

Orla is a fictional character from the video game series Fire Emblem. She is a key character in the narrative, often involved in the political and personal conflicts of her world.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Orla was first seen in the United States in 1892. Orla has ranked as high as #1289 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in New York, California, Illinois, Minnesota, and Massachusetts. In the past 5 years the name Orla has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Orla (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 7
28%
MN 6
24%
NY 6
24%
MA 6
24%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18926
18985
18996
19045
19105
191410
19156
191617
191711
19189
191913
192017
192111
192215
192310
19249
19258
192614
192716
192811
19299
19308
19328
193310
193410
19366
193711
19386
19407
19446
19478
19495
19515
19565
19575
19595
19645
19666
19675
199110
19926
19946
19967
19979
19987
199911
200019
200117
200217
200314
200414
200515
200614
200721
200817
200931
201022
201128
201219
201329
201429
201530
201631
201719
201829
201937
202032
202156
202260
202368
202471